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Corozal, nestled within the Sucre department of Colombia, occupies a geographically significant position in the Magdalena River Valley. Located at approximately 9.3333° latitude and -75.2500° longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the expansive floodplain. Its elevation, relatively low, contributes to a humid, tropical climate and influences local air circulation patterns. The Magdalena River, a vital artery of Colombia, flows nearby, impacting humidity levels and potentially influencing the dispersion of pollutants. Surrounding Corozal is a mosaic of agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to sugarcane cultivation and cattle ranching, a common feature of the region’s economy. This agricultural activity introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons when burning is sometimes employed. The urban–rural gradient transitions relatively quickly, with small farming communities and dispersed rural settlements bordering the city limits. Further afield, the landscape gradually rises towards the foothills of the Eastern Cordillera, though these mountains do not exert a strong influence on Corozal’s immediate microclimate. The city’s location within a broad river valley can sometimes trap pollutants, especially during periods of low wind speed. Industrial activity is limited within Corozal itself, but the broader Sucre department hosts some processing plants, and their emissions can occasionally impact air quality. The flat topography and humid climate combine to create conditions where pollutants can linger, particularly those related to agricultural practices and regional transportation.

Corozal’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing its air quality throughout the year. The wet season, typically spanning from April to November, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity. While the rain naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by washing away particulate matter, the increased humidity can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. The dry season, from December to March, often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced rainfall and lower atmospheric mixing. During these months, stagnant air conditions are more common, particularly when high-pressure systems settle over the region. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, can also occur, further concentrating pollutants. Agricultural burning, a practice sometimes used to clear land or prepare fields, is most prevalent during the transition periods between seasons, contributing to spikes in particulate matter. Fog, common during the cooler, drier months, can also trap pollutants close to the ground. Outdoor activities are generally more pleasant during the wet season, but those with respiratory conditions should remain vigilant. During the dry season, particularly in January and February, limiting strenuous outdoor exercise and wearing masks during periods of visible haze is advisable, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular ailments. The Magdalena River’s influence on humidity also plays a role, with higher humidity potentially impacting the perception of air quality and exacerbating respiratory discomfort.